Myristic acid, also known as tetradecanoic acid, is emerging as one of the key ingredients in the formulation of cosmetic and personal care products. Sourced from natural origins such as coconut oil, cow’s milk, or nutmeg, this saturated fatty acid is highly valued for its emulsifying, stabilizing, and moisturizing properties.
What is Myristic Acid and Where Does It Come From?
This medium-chain saturated fatty acid, with the chemical formula C14H28O2, occurs naturally in both animal and plant fats. It is found mainly in coconut oil, palm oil, cow’s milk, nutmeg butter, and in significant amounts in breast milk.
While myristic acid has long been used in the food and pharmaceutical industries, it is now becoming a cornerstone in cosmetics thanks to its multiple skin benefits and its ability to enhance the formulation and performance of products such as creams, soaps, facial cleansers, lotions, and hair conditioners.
What Does Myristic Acid Do for the Skin?
Myristic acid can be an ideal ally for skin care for several reasons:
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Moisturizing and protective function: It acts as a barrier against transepidermal water loss, helping to keep skin hydrated and protected from environmental aggressors such as pollution or wind.
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Absorption enhancer: It boosts the penetration of other active ingredients, making serums and creams more effective.
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Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties: It helps soothe mild irritations and fight certain bacteria present on the skin’s surface.
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Effective cleansing action: As a surfactant, it binds to oily impurities and helps remove them, leaving the skin clean without causing dryness.
What Is Its Role in Cosmetics?
At Jessbeauty, myristic acid is used strategically thanks to its multiple technical and cosmetic benefits. Among its most important functions are:
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Emulsifier: Stabilizes formulas that contain both water and oil, preventing separation and creating pleasant, silky textures.
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Thickener: Provides a creamy and even consistency, perfect for lotions and creams that require a denser texture without feeling heavy.
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Opacifier: Creates a uniform and appealing appearance in the product’s color, making it more visually attractive.
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Stabilizer: Extends the product’s shelf life by preventing rapid degradation of its components.
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Gentle cleanser: Ideal for sensitive skin formulas, as it cleans without disrupting the skin’s natural hydrolipid balance.
Why Is It at the Center of Cosmetic Innovation?
With the rise of conscious skin care and the search for more effective, naturally sourced formulas, myristic acid stands out as an essential ingredient thanks to its plant-based origin, low irritation potential, and high functionality. Its compatibility with other active ingredients also makes it a key tool in enhancing targeted routines, whether for deep hydration, oil control, or improving skin texture.
At Jessbeauty, myristic acid is used not only for its technical benefits but also for its ability to elevate the sensorial experience. It ensures that creams and cleansers are not only effective but also delightful to use, with soft textures that are quickly absorbed by the skin.
Its presence in facial, body, and hair care products is far from a passing trend—it is a scientifically backed, functional response to the needs of healthy, balanced, and protected skin. Its inclusion in Jessbeauty’s formulas reflects a shift toward more effective, natural, and skin-conscious products. Ultimately, this fatty acid is no longer just a technical component—it is becoming a star ingredient in today’s beauty routines.
